'We spoke' - Uche shares details of conversation with Eric Chelle before Super Eagles debut v Jamaica

Super Eagles midfielder Christantus Uche has opened up on the conversation he had with head coach Eric Chelle ahead of his debut in Nigeria's Unity Cup clash against Jamaica on Saturday.

Uche, who joined the camp late due to visa issues, made a dream debut at the Gtech Community Stadium, scoring the decisive penalty in Nigeria's 5-4 shootout win after regulation time ended 1-1. The victory ensured Nigeria retained the Unity Cup title.

In an interview with the match broadcaster monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, the 22-year-old Getafe star revealed that Chelle had approached him a day before the final to gauge his readiness.

"Yesterday (On Friday), the coach saw me and we spoke. He asked if I was ready and I told him today I was ready to play," Uche shared in his post-match reaction.

The midfielder expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country, calling it the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.

"Today is an opportunity for me in the national team and my debut. I am grateful to have the opportunity today and I am happy for all my teammates.

"It is what I have been praying for. To be in the national team and represent my country and today it was all amazing."

Uche, who calmly slotted home Nigeria's fifth and final penalty, described the composure he needed in that crucial moment.

"I was calm. I told myself to calm down because if I rushed it I might miss it. But I just calmed down and made the right decision and I hit the ball into the net."

Uche earned his senior call-up after a strong season with La Liga side Getafe, where he scored four goals and provided six assists in 33 league appearances.

With an eye-catching debut behind him, Uche will now look to build on this momentum and secure a regular place in the national team setup.

Adeyemi Adewale

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